Honda Civic Type R Takes on Pirelli World Challenge

March 23, 2018

RealTime Racing will field a pair of Honda Civic Type R entries at the Circuit of the Americas this weekend, driven by Ryan Eversley and Nick Esayian. (PRNewsfoto/Honda Racing/HPD)

TORRANCE, Calif., March 22, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — A pair of Honda Civic Type Rs will join the popular new TCR category as the Touring Car divisions of the 2018 Pirelli World Challenge series begin their season this weekend with a pair of races at Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas.

RealTime Racing will field veteran Honda driver Ryan Eversley and the returning Nick Esayian aboard Honda Civic Type Rs in a competitive TCR field that includes no fewer than 14 entries representing five major automobile manufacturers.

“TCR is arguably the fastest-growing worldwide Touring Car racing category, and all of us at Honda and HPD enjoy taking part in competitive racing series which feature multiple manufacturers,” said Art St. Cyr, president of HPD. “We are looking forward to introducing and offering this Civic Type R-based TCR race car to Honda fans and racers.

“While RealTime Racing has been closely associated with our Acura GT race programs in recent seasons, the team also has been very successful in Touring Car classes, winning multiple titles with both the Honda and Acura brands dating all the way back to the early 1990s.”

“I’m very happy to continue my relationship with RealTime Racing and HPD,” said Eversley, a winner for Honda and Acura in multiple series, including the PWC GT ranks. “If you look at RealTime’s history, they’ve had tremendous success with front-wheel drive touring cars, so being able to race one for them is what I’ve dreamed about since I started out as a race car driver. It’s very exciting.”

The Touring Car division of the Pirelli World Challenge is made up of 12 races over six weekends and includes three separate classes: TCR, TC and TCA. Nine manufacturers take part in the three classes, each of which features a pair of 40-minute races during each event weekend. In TCR, the Honda Civic Type R will take on competition from Audi, Volkswagen, Hyundai and Alfa Romeo in a 14-car field.

A total of 17 entries are entered in the TC class this weekend, including a Honda Civic Type R prepared to TC class rules and entered by Team HMA, made up of associates from Honda Manufacturing of Alabama. Josh Foran, an engineer at HMA, will drive for the team.

Unlike TCR Honda Civic Type R, where many racing components are used with the production engine and chassis, the TC technical regulations require the car to be very close to the production version, with only minor safety and suspension changes allowed.

“The new Honda Civic Type R is the ideal platform for TC class racing,” said St. Cyr. “The Type R was developed to be a race car for the road right from the factory, and we’ve dialed it all the way up for the track through our partnership with JAS Motorsport.”

In addition to its TCR entries, RealTime also will field a Honda Civic Si in the 14-car TCA class for rising star Tom O’Gorman, a race winner last year in his first year in TCA. In 2016, O’Gorman was Rookie of the Year and champion of the former TCB class, driving his Honda Fit to four wins in his first season of Pirelli World Challenge competition.

Developed by Honda partner JAS Motorsport in Italy and available in race-ready condition through Honda Performance Development, the Honda Civic Type R TCR features the latest developments in Touring Car competition, including a 2.0-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder engine tuned to produce 330 hp. Power is sent to the front wheels via a six-speed, paddle-operated transmission. The Type R is fitted with a race-tuned suspension and anti-roll bar package, along with an aggressive, aerodynamic body kit and redesigned exterior.

Pirelli World Challenge TCR action begins Friday with two practice sessions, followed by qualifying and the 40-minute Round 1 at 5:55 p.m. EDT Saturday. Sunday’s Round 2 event will take place at 1:25 p.m. EDT. All races will be live streamed on the Pirelli World Challenge website, www.world-challenge.com, and post-produced highlight telecasts will air on the CBS Sports Network.

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/657954/Honda_Racing_RealTime_Civic_TypeR.jpg
Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/83597/honda_performance_development__inc__honda_racing_logo.jpg

SOURCE Honda Racing/HPD

Hatch is Back! All-New 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback Wows at the 2018 New York International Auto Show

March 23, 2018

For the first time in North America, Toyota’s newest, stylish, and most technologically-advanced small car, the all-new 2019 Corolla Hatchback, makes its debut at the New York International Auto Show.

NEW YORK, March 23, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Talk about going big in the Big Apple! For the first time in North America, Toyota’s newest, stylish, and most technologically-advanced small car, the all-new 2019 Corolla Hatchback, makes its debut at the New York International Auto Show.

Don’t let its diminutive dimensions fool you – the hatchback, in either SE or XSE grades, is all about making a huge impression. With its lengthy list of standard features that includes Entune 3.0 with Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa Connectivity; a revised sport-tuned suspension and new Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform; and the first North American application of Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, Corolla Hatchback strikes a resounding chord with drivers who value authenticity, utility, practicality, and style.

Hot hatch? More like Haute Hatch.

Indomitable Style

Corolla Hatchback has flair extraordinaire. With a theme of Shooting Robust, along with a design goal of Agile, influencing their every pen stroke, designers created a form that is simultaneously distinct, dynamic, muscular, and sophisticated. Shooting references the design’s sport coupe traits implemented in all facets.

With those concepts in mind, Corolla Hatchback is a meticulously mixed cocktail of emotive lines, creases, and surfaces. It’s lower (by 1.0 in.), wider (by 1.2 in.), and longer (by 1.5 in.) than its predecessor, Corolla iM. It also has wider front and rear tracks, and a longer wheelbase.

Its hood sits two inches lower than before, affording passengers excellent forward visibility. The new frontal styling with a rounded nose and trapezoidal-shaped under grille is a further evolution of Toyota’s Under Priority Catamaran and Keen Look design philosophies, both of which emphasize Corolla Hatchback’s increased width.

Slim, J-shaped Bi-Beam LED headlamps wrap deep into the front fenders and accent the front in both stylishness and precise illumination. Front overhang has been cut by 0.8 inches; at the rear, it’s 0.8 inches longer. Chiseled character lines at its profile link both ends’ protruding flanks making for an active, well-planted expression that is uncommon amongst its peers. Wheel sizes range from 16-inches to 18-inches in diameter.

Its new rear style articulates Corolla Hatchback’s overarching emphasis on athletic presence. The relationship between front and rear design is closely aligned given the rear’s more rounded physique that encompasses simple, condensed, yet powerful, three-dimensional landscapes. Its hatch – now made from TSOP (Toyota Super Olefin Polymer) and ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) – is not only lightweight to aid fuel efficiency, it is set at a steeper angle (moved 14 degrees forward) for that ultimate sporty look. The rear all-LED taillamps feature a diffusing inner lens designed to highlight the hatchback’s stout stance. And the rear bumper styling echoes the frontal Under Priority Catamaran design with its thin lower lip and chrome diffuser.

Differentiation between SE and XSE is distinct. Both grades receive LED headlamps and taillights, chrome rear diffuser, and alloy wheels. XSE ups the ante with 18-inch wheels, LED fog lights, chrome front grille surround, and an available innovative Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS). AFS – available only on XSE CVT – allows for the focused distribution of light in an area that matches the vehicle’s speed and steering angle. The Bi-Beam LED units move vertically and horizontally to provide optimal light output by analyzing steering angle, vehicle speed, and the vehicle’s longitudinal axes angle to adjust lamps.

Corolla Hatchback’s color range includes the new-for-2019 color Rival Blue, as well as Blizzard Pearl, Silver Metallic, Midnight Black, Galactic Aqua Mica, Scarlet, and Oxide Bronze.

PRELIMINARY EXTERIOR DIMENSIONS (vs. MY2018) [difference]
Wheelbase	103.9 in. (102.4) [+1.5 in.]
Overall Length	172.0 in. (170.5) [+1.5 in.]
Overall Width	70.5 in. (69.3) [+1.2 in.]
Overall Height	56.6 in. (57.5) [-1.0 in.]

Inner Emotiveness

Simple. Warm. Inviting. Sensuous. Descriptors like these inspired designers’ efforts when visualizing Corolla Hatchback’s cabin. Sensuous Minimalism marinates the entire capacious space. From their supportive sport seats, front passengers are faced with a neat instrument panel that lends an open, harmonious feeling thanks to its 0.9-inch thinner upper surface and 1.7-inch wider center console dividing passengers.

At the center of the instrument panel resides a standard high-resolution 8-inch multimedia touchscreen. The center stack screen provides access to vehicle settings, audio controls, navigation, smartphone, and Entune 3.0 apps. Climate controls, located below the multimedia portal, are fashioned in a bright, highly visible digitized configuration.

In addition to being wider, the center console is also longer to accommodate a larger variety of passenger physiques and comfort preferences. It incorporates a center tray ahead of the gearshift that can hold small items such as a smartphone or wallet, or if outfitted, serves as the Qi wireless device charging area. A 5.5-inch smartphone can easily fit inside the center console box.

High-gloss materials are paired with matte elements – silver accents with Piano Black and available contrasting stitching – to best accentuate a premium look and feel. The elimination of unnecessary lettering on switchgear, plus, the unification of all materials’ and elements’ shape, color, grain, and gloss, maximize continuity and aesthetic cleanliness. Tactility, too, is minded with the utmost consideration. Keen eyes will appreciate the minimized gaps between buttons and switches; again, furthering Corolla Hatchback’s sophisticated character.

Front passengers’ hip points are lower (to 10.82 inches), and cushioning has been revised, which provides a more natural body posture and position for ideal access to the multifunction steering wheel, pedals, and gearshift. Such optimized seating allows passengers to enjoy Corolla Hatchback’s thrilling dynamics all the better. Front door storage solutions include cup holders capable of accommodating 24-ounce bottles and A4-sized documents. Not to be outdone, rear seats utilize updated cushioning to improve comfort and minimize fatigue. Furthering their convenience are upper door cup holders that accommodate 16-ounce bottles.

The standard amenity list is as impressive as the cabin’s aesthetic. SE grade is equipped with single-zone automatic climate control, leather shift knob, and paddle shifters located behind the steering wheel. An electronic parking brake, three-door SmartKey system, automatic up/down windows, and two front USB outlets are standard as well.

XSE grade builds on SE’s amenity palette by including dual-zone climate control, combination leather (leather with mélange-like fabric) seating, heated front seats, and eight-way power driver’s seat. XSE’s instrument panel and doors receive unique stitching, and behind the multifunction steering wheel, a 7-inch TFT Multi-Information Display (MID) shows vehicle information, turn-by-turn navigation, and various vehicle settings (including those pertaining to Lane Departure Alert, Lane Tracing Assist, Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, and Blind Spot Monitor).

While electrifying in functionality and personality, Corolla Hatchback delivers a civilized, quiet ride. Powertrain drone and road noise have been culled thanks to revised drivetrain efficiencies, plus, the widespread implementation of sound-absorbing materials, sealants, foams, resonator ribs, and silencers. Its TNGA structure utilizes additional seals in its body panel gaps to insulate noise penetration and enhance air sealing performance. Corolla Hatchback’s Aero Stabilizing Fins located on its taillights also combat wind drone.

Multifaceted Multimedia

There’s no shortage of entertainment and connectivity capability inside Corolla Hatchback either. For SE, standard Entune 3.0 Audio includes 8-in. touchscreen; six speakers; Apple CarPlay compatibility; Amazon Alexa; Entune 3.0 App Suite Connect; Safety Connect; Wi-Fi Connect; Scout GPS Link Compatible; Siri Eyes Free; Auxiliary audio jack and USB 2.0 port with iPod connectivity and control; AM/FM; MP3/WMA playback capability; Voice Recognition training and tutorials; Hands-free phone capability; voice recognition and music streaming via Bluetooth; Customizable Home Screen; and Weather/Traffic info via Entune 3.0 App Suite.

Entune 3.0 Audio Plus, which is standard on XSE and optional on SE CVT, adds HD Radio and Weather/Traffic info; SiriusXM with Cache Radio; Entune 3.0 Connected Services; Service Connect; Remote Connect. Topping the range is Entune 3.0 Audio Premium that’s optional on XSE CVT. The system includes a JBL 8-speaker 800-watt system with Clari-Fi; Dynamic Voice Recognition; Dynamic Navigation; Dynamic POI Search; and Destination Assist Connect.

The JBL audio experience with Clari-Fi – having such a complete orchestration of advanced power output, hardware, structure, and software – is engineered to impress even the most perceptive audiophile.

Other JBL audio system highlights include:

Free Standing Horn Tweeters

Located in the A-pillar at ear level for optimal high-frequency performance

Next-Generation HID8 Amplifier

800-watts of total power, with better performance and efficiency

6.7-inch Door Subwoofers

More powerful deep-bass response

Premium JBL Branding

Located on A-pillar, door trim, and head unit

Sealed Inner Door Panels

Promote cleaner, more power bass

Wide Dispersion Midrange Speakers

Provide full range sound for rear passengers

Clari-Fi Technology

Analyzes, rebuilds, and restores audio signals that were lost In the digital compression process

Rounding off Corolla Hatchback’s connectivity are two USB terminals (located inside the center console and instrument panel) and one AUX port (located on the instrument panel).

A Driver’s Hatchback

Corolla Hatchback’s seamless unification of comfort and sporty controllability begins at its TNGA C platform. The compact structure employs a mixture of adhesives, spot welding, and additional bracing – top to bottom, side to side – for the benefits of driver controllability and low fuel consumption. On-road feel and fuel efficiency is further refined through the extensive use of aluminum and high- and ultra-high tensile steel in the lighter-weight chassis and body. In fact, torsional rigidity is improved a massive 60 percent compared to its predecessor.

Affixed to this musculature are revised front and rear suspensions. Its front MacPherson strut setup’s geometry is changed (i.e. updated bound stopper clearance; stabilizer location) and incorporates other key augmentations like revised coil spring rate and damping force, and reduced friction in sliding parts. This all makes for a high-quality steering feel, ride comfort, and handling stability.

At the Corolla Hatchback’s rear multi-link suspension with stabilizer bar, responsiveness is sharpened through updated shock absorbers and springs, and like the front, geometry is slightly modified. Lower arm locations have moved (for improved toe-in angle during higher-speed maneuvering), as has shock absorber placement (moved forward for better cargo capacity and reduced longitudinal low frequency input). Overall, front and rear suspension friction has been reduced by 40 percent, and its center of gravity is cut by a substantial 0.8 inches.

The end result: A Corolla Hatchback that possesses an uncanny blend of balance, composure, and feel that’ll have its driver pining for windy roads – time and time again.

The Heart of Fun-to-Drive

TNGA isn’t just the genesis of Corolla Hatchback’s astute footwork and balance: An all-new TNGA-based powertrain is the heart of Corolla Hatchback’s Fun-To-Drive identity. Its 2.0-liter Dynamic-Force direct-injection inline four-cylinder engine (M20A-FKS) adopts the latest in Toyota technology and structural efficacies for gains in power, fuel efficiency, and cleaner emissions.

Physically, the engine is smaller and lighter than its 1.8-liter four-cylinder predecessor, which helps to lower Corolla Hatchback’s center of gravity and benefits its overall balance. The 2.0-liter is also quieter for improved Noise Vibration Harshness (NVH) with additions like a more rigid crank case with integrated stiffener; a lighter resin cylinder head; and a ribbed oil pan.

The M20A-FKS is equipped with Toyota’s latest D-4S fuel-injection that uses high-pressure direct-injection and low-pressure PFI (Port Fuel Injection). The setup adapts its injection method based on driving conditions so that ideal combustion is executed. The engine also features Dual VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing-intelligence), with VVT-iE (Variable Valve Timing-intelligence by Electric motor) on the intake side and VVT-i on the exhaust. VVT-iE uses one electric motor instead of oil pressure to control the variable valve timing. Together, the valve timing systems enhance power output and fuel mileage, and cut harmful emissions.

Other notable improvements to the Dynamic-Force engine include:

Longer stroke
Compression up to 13:1
Enlarged valve nip angle
Enhanced intake port efficiency with laser clad valve seat

Key Benefits:

Higher rate of combustion, high tumble flow, and high intake air flow volume

Pistons with round top surface and slanted side wall

Key Benefits:

Consistent tumble flow and rapid combustion maintained
Less knocking and higher compression ratio
Friction reduction between piston skirt and cylinder

Lubrication enhanced with three oil jets dedicated to each cylinder

Key Benefits:

Better MPG, dynamic performance, less knocking, and less oil consumption

Lighter weight timing chain

Key Benefits:

Low cabin noise and reduced friction

Drain path within crank case to return oil from cylinder head to oil pan

Key Benefits:

Less oil agitation caused by the crankshaft, which means less rotation resistance

Connecting Rod made of high strength steel with optimized shape

Key Benefits:

Reduction in weight

Camshaft with concave profile

Key Benefits:

Increased valve lift amount

Optimized water jacket in head and block

Key Benefits:

Enhanced cooling and reliability

PRELIMINARY ENGINE SPECIFICATIONS
Engine Model	M20A-FKS
No. Cylinders and Arrangement	4-cylinder, inline
Valve Mechanism	16-valve DOHC, chain drive with Dual VVT-i (Intake: VVT-iE, Exhaust: VVT-i)
Bore x Stroke (mm)	80.5 x 97.6
Displacement (cc)	1987
Compression Ratio	13.0:1
Fuel System	Direct Injection, Port Injection
Horsepower / Torque	TBD / TBD

Be they a commuter or canyon cruiser, drivers will appreciate Corolla Hatchback’s available transmissions: an all-new Dynamic-Shift CVT (K120), or a six-speed iMT (Intelligent Manual Transmission) gearbox (EG60). The Dynamic-Shift CVT has simulated 10-speed Sequential Shiftmatic steps, Sport Mode, and paddle shifters. It features a number of innovative elements, including the world’s first launch gear in a passenger vehicle CVT.

Having a launch gear facilitates improved transmission efficiency in lower gear ratios where belt efficiency is typically poor. The transmission system utilizes gear drive when starting from a full stop, resulting in powerful acceleration, while at the same time, resolving the momentary sluggish feeling that was previously present during accelerator operation. Both smooth and comfortable launch performance are realized. When switching from gear drive to belt drive, the transmission system uses highly responsive gear change control technologies cultivated from automatic transmission technology.

With its launch gear in place, the belt has been tuned for higher gear ratios. This new setup not only improves the efficiency of belt operation, but it also enables the adoption of wider gear ranges, thereby realizing a class-leading gear ratio range of 7.5 for the 2.0-liter class.

Another benefit of the launch gear is a reduced input load. This enables the size of both belt and pulley components to be reduced. Furthermore, the belt angle has been narrowed and pulley diameters reduced, resulting in shifting speeds that are 20 percent faster. Powerful and predictable acceleration is realized, as is an endearing driving experience.

But the more involved driver will be engaged by the all-new six-speed iMT with downshift rev-matching control. Compared to the existing manual transmission, the new gearbox is lighter (by 15 pounds; total weight of 88 pounds) and shorter (by 0.94 inches), making it one of the world’s smallest transmissions. Its small size contributes to improved fuel efficiency.

The gearbox also offers world-leading transmission efficiency, while the use of iMT controls, which automatically adjust engine revolutions when changing gears, ensures smooth gear shifting―free of uncomfortable recoils―for the driver.

Enhanced Toyota Safety Tech

Toyota continues to lead the pack when it comes to safety, and the all-new Corolla Hatchback provides drivers and passengers with standard safety technologies that take one step closer to achieving the ultimate goal of zero casualties from traffic accidents.

Corolla Hatchback comes standard with TSS 2.0, the second generation of Toyota Safety Sense (TSS). The updated safety package adds new active-safety technologies and capabilities that enhance protection.

Breakdowns of each technology are as follows:

Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Direction (PCS w/PD):

Capability to detect a preceding vehicle or pedestrian in daytime or nighttime (nighttime is new), or daytime bicyclist (new), and alert the driver (audible and visual warnings) and/or apply brakes to help mitigate or avoid the collision in certain cases (using Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Brake Assist (BA), and Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB)).

Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (Full-Speed DRCC):

For highways/freeways only. Full-Speed Range DRCC is standard on all Corolla Hatchback models, except those equipped with a manual transmission. Those having a manual transmission are equipped with DRCC. Full-Speed Range DRCC is an adaptive cruise control that is designed to function at speeds between 0 to 110 mph and enables low-speed speed matching, stopping, and acceleration/deceleration relative to a preceding vehicle traveling at a slower speed. Speed, cut-in, and distance control enhanced, as well as Turn Signal Linked control added, for a more natural response.

Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist (LDA w/SA):

Newly added to LDA w/SA is the capability, under some circumstances, to detect the road’s edge, in addition to the pre-existing capability to detect visible lane markers and the vehicle’s position in the lane. If unintentional lane deviation is detected, the system alerts the driver with audible and visual warnings. Steering Assist provides small corrective steering inputs momentarily to help the driver prevent the vehicle from unintentionally leaving its lane.

Automatic High Beam (AHB):

Capability to automatically activate and deactivate high beams based on driving environment and preceding vehicle’s lights.

(NEW) Lane Tracing Assist (LTA):

For highways/freeways only and can be enabled when using DRCC – Capability to recognize white or yellow lane markings or the path of a preceding vehicle if lane markers are temporarily not available; to identify and actively track the center of the lane by providing steering assistance to the driver (hands-on, driver-assist system). Reduces driver burden and supports safe driving, especially in traffic congestion or long highway trips. The LTA system can be turned on/off.

The 2019 Corolla Hatchback has seven standard airbags and Toyota’s Star Safety System, which includes Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Brake Assist, Anti-lock Braking System, and Smart Stop Technology. Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) is standard on XSE and available on SE. (Please note: BSM does not include Rear Cross Traffic Alert.) Corolla Hatchback also comes equipped with a standard backup camera.

About Toyota
Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in the U.S. and North America for 60 years, and is committed to advancing sustainable, next-generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands. During that time, Toyota has created a tremendous value chain as our teams have contributed to world-class design, engineering, and assembly of more than 36 million cars and trucks in North America, where we operate 14 manufacturing plants (10 in the U.S.) and directly employ more than 47,000 people (more than 37,000 in the U.S.). Our 1,800 North American dealerships (nearly 1,500 in the U.S.) sold more than 2.7 million cars and trucks (2.4 million in the U.S.) in 2017 – and about 87 percent of all Toyota vehicles sold over the past 15 years are still on the road today.

Toyota partners with community, civic, academic, and governmental organizations to address our society’s most pressing mobility challenges. We share company resources and extensive know-how to support non-profits to help expand their ability to assist more people move more places. For more information about Toyota, visit www.toyotanewsroom.com.

Toyota Product Communications

Nate Martinez
+1 (469) 292-5753
[email protected]

Marissa Borjon
+1 (469) 292-6395
[email protected]

Josh Burns
+1 (469) 292-6449
[email protected]

Photo- https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/657042/Toyota_2019_Corolla_Hatchback.jpg
Logo- https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/439685/Toyota_Corp_Red_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Toyota Motor North America

The Home Depot and Pinterest to Expand “Shop the Look” with More Than 100,000 Décor Products

March 22, 2018

ATLANTA, March 22, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The Home Depot® and Pinterest have partnered to dramatically expand Pinterest’s visual discovery feature, Shop the Look, with more than 100,000 new shoppable home décor products, including vanities, faucets, lighting, textiles, tabletop and interior décor.

Shop the Look makes it easy to search and buy similar products to those featured in Pins. To shop a Pin, users can tap the circle on a product to see similar, shoppable items.

The visual search expansion builds on the previous innovation between the platform and retailer.

Earlier this year, The Home Depot launched a video campaign, “Built In Pins,” to illustrate the DIYer’s hard work behind the inspirational images commonly found on Pinterest. In the compact Pin format, the Pins show the before, during and after of a home improvement project – from ripping up carpet, to painting and installing new flooring, to finishing out the room with furniture and décor. The Pins feature how-to guides and tip-sheets for the projects shown and are fully shoppable.

The expansion of the retailer’s partnership with Pinterest complements The Home Depot’s growing online catalog of home and interior décor products, including a recent acquisition of The Company Store to broaden capabilities in textile development and sourcing.

About The Home Depot
The Home Depot is the world’s largest home improvement specialty retailer, with 2,284 retail stores in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, 10 Canadian provinces and Mexico. In fiscal 2017, The Home Depot had sales of $100.9 billion and earnings of $8.6 billion. The Company employs more than 400,000 associates. The Home Depot’s stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: HD) and is included in the Dow Jones industrial average and Standard & Poor’s 500 index.

Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/118058/the_home_depot_logo.jpg

SOURCE The Home Depot

HOLA! USA Presents April 2018 Issue With The Most Extensive Coverage Of The Preparations Of The Royal Wedding Between Prince Harry Of England And Meghan Markle

March 22, 2018

HOLA! USA April 2018 Issue Cover (Spanish)

NEW YORK, March 22, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — A month away from the most anticipated royal wedding in the world, HOLA! USA presents all the details of the event of the year and the love story of the couple that is changing the rules of British royalty and nine centuries of monarchical tradition. The fairy tale, starring Prince Harry of England and American actress Meghan Markle, under the magnifying glass of HOLA!, the magazine considered the greatest authority on issues of European royalty, with fourteen pages devoted to little known aspects of the actress who fell in love with one of the most coveted men on the planet. Exclusive photos and stories that reveal the life of Meghan. From her life as a student to the secret trips she made with Prince Harry, before making public the relationship between them and how they have become one of the most powerful couples. In addition, full coverage of what will be the spectacular ceremony on May 19th and the particular touches that its famous protagonists want to give to the event.

“It’s about a love story that reminds us of a fairy tale … Something the world has not seen since Grace Kelly’s famous wedding with Raniero of Monaco, in 1956.” “And many will have their eyes on them for the influence and impact they can have on issues that affect the entire planet,” says Miguel Sirgado, editor in chief of HOLA! USA.

HOLA! USA also talks in exclusive with 29-year-old Brazilian blogger: Camila Coelho. The influencer tells how she attained more than 10 million followers on her social media and what it means for her to be considered the new voice of the digital era. In addition, Camila presents a complete display of fashion with the best trends for this season. Also, this issue includes Adria Arjona, one of Hollywood’s new IT girls. The daughter of singer-songwriter Ricardo Arjona, she is now part of the cast of the movie Pacific Rim Uprising. She is considered the next Latina to take Hollywood. Our magazine talked with her about her new projects, her childhood among famous parents and her nomadic lifestyle.

HOLA! USA also gives access to the home of the Dominican TV personality Lourdes Stephen, who opened the doors of her house to tell us about her new life after her departure of Univision and her upcoming projects.

In the section No Filter, we present an exclusive interview with Erdem Moralioglu, the favorite designer of the Duchess of Cambridge, Meghan Markle, Michelle Obama and Meryl Streep, among other celebrities. Also, the Dominican model and television host Clarissa Molina shares her beauty secrets and the tips she uses to conquer social media. All this plus a complete spring fashion and beauty guide, showcasing the standout color palettes for the season.

HOLA! USA cover for download:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/4qdetc7iet8fg00/HOLA%20April%20COV%20E.jpg?dl=0

Promo HOLA! USA (video) for download:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/h2960jt7cn023c2/promo%20hola%20abril.mp4?dl=0

About ¡HOLA!
Founded in 1944, ¡HOLA! Magazine has become one of the world’s leaders in its field. Its long history publishing the best celebrity and royalty photographs has made it an international icon for glamour, informative accuracy and good quality. The Spanish company HELLO! & ¡HOLA! Media, Inc. publishes 30 international editions in 10 languages across five continents. ¡HOLA! reaches 25 million readers worldwide, engages with 24 million unique monthly visitors, has over 13 million social media followers, and is seen by 21.5 million on its broadcast channel, ¡HOLA! TV.

Follow HOLA! USA
Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest: @usahola
Facebook.com/RevistaHolaUSA
Web: HOLA.com
Hashtag: #HOLAUSA

Video – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/657422/promo_hola_abril.mp4
Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/657421/HOLA_April_2018_Issue.jpg

SOURCE HOLA! USA

Toyota Scores A Goal With Club América Partnership For Tour Águila In The U.S.

March 22, 2018

PLANO, Texas, March 22, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Screams will be heard from far and wide as Hispanic fútbol fans cheer on their teams during an action-packed year of soccer. Toyota is diving into the action as the official sponsor of fans with a series of key partnerships that will bring the passion for the sport to center stage.

To kick off 2018, Toyota is partnering with Club América, the most celebrated and followed soccer team in North America. The sponsorship includes participation in Tour Águila, the club’s annual U.S. tour. Toyota will bring fans closer to their beloved team through activities featuring players, social content and digital programs and much more.

“Toyota wants to amplify the fans’ experience by igniting their passion and spirit for the game as they cheer on their favorite teams,” said Tyler McBride, engagement and event manager, Toyota Motor North America. “Our terrific partnership with Club América and participation with other high-level soccer platforms underscores our genuine commitment to the sport and the people who watch it and live it.”

As the official automotive sponsor of Tour Águila, the brand will bring the action to fans starting on March 24^th in San Diego, California against its rival, Club Tijuana. The Tour consists of a series of friendly matches against some of the most important teams in Liga MX and MLS during the preseason and FIFA dates. These matches will take place in key Hispanic markets including cities in California and Texas and will be broadcast on Univision Deportes in the U.S. and on Televisa in Mexico.

“We are very excited to continue our expansion in the United States by partnering with Toyota, a global leader and innovator in the automotive industry,” said Mauricio Culebro, President of Operations for Club América. “Toyota understands soccer as a passion point and the value of engaging our fans during Tour Águila.”

In addition, Toyota will be presenting sponsor of the pre-game Fiesta Futbolera, an interactive Fan Fest celebration of the Club, including a showcase of the team’s championship trophies, Agui the official mascot and legendary player appearances. Other elements of the partnership include in-stadium content opportunities including live partnership announcements and video, on-field signage, tickets and giveaways.

Game schedule, team information and all the action can be followed on Toyota’s social channels @ToyotaLatino with hashtag Vayamos Juntos and on the club’s official tour website www.touraguila.com and social handles @TourAguila and @ClubAmerica. The sponsorship was coordinated with PRIMETIME Sports, the commercial agency for Club América in the U.S. and producer of the annual Tour Águila.

Along with Club América, Toyota will connect with soccer fans at a community level through an association with Alianza de Fútbol, the premier organization in the U.S. dedicated to the support and development of Hispanic amateur soccer. As the exclusive automotive sponsor of Alianza, Toyota will be the title sponsor of the Copita Alianza, a series of youth tournaments that take place from May through October in key Hispanic markets where thousands of children participate. The sponsorship includes activation areas where Toyota will connect with families and kids with a full experiential footprint, including branded jerseys, trophies, and special soccer guest appearances. The tournament kicks off the weekend of May 12-13 in Houston, Texas.

“Being a part of Alianza this year provides an opportunity to engage with kids and their families in local fields throughout the U.S.,” added McBride. “Soccer provides a positive and healthy environment for kids and we’re looking forward to being part of these fun-filled tournaments.”

The soccer frenzy will reach fever pitch this summer during the sport’s most watched global tournament. Toyota will continue its commitment to all the hard-working fútbol fans through a robust effort that will harness the excitement and energy of the games. And the Toyota Tundra will be along for the ride.

In addition to active, on-the-ground game partnerships, Toyota is engaged with a variety of popular soccer properties including Liga Mexicana, U.S. Men’s Team, Mexican National Team, and UEFA Champions League, with broadcast integrations and live streaming during telecast games.

About Toyota:
Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in the U.S. and North America for 60 years, and is committed to advancing sustainable, next-generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands. During that time, Toyota has created a tremendous value chain as our teams have contributed to world-class design, engineering, and assembly of more than 36 million cars and trucks in North America, where we operate 14 manufacturing plants (10 in the U.S.) and directly employ more than 47,000 people (more than 37,000 in the U.S.). Our 1,800 North American dealerships (nearly 1,500 in the U.S.) sold more than 2.7 million cars and trucks (2.4 million in the U.S.) in 2017 – and about 87 percent of all Toyota vehicles sold over the past 15 years are still on the road today.

About Club América:
Founded on October 12, 1916, Club América is the most successful and followed soccer team in Mexico. Through our 101-year heritage we have won 32 trophies, including 12 League Titles, 5 Cup Wins, and 7 Concacaf Champions Leagues. Our home matches are played at Estadio Azteca, home of two World Cup Finals, with a capacity for over 80,000 fans. As part of our efforts to connect with our fanbase in the USA, América hosts Tour Águila, a series of exhibition matches hosted in soccer-specific stadiums against Liga MX, European and MLS teams. Tour Águila is played in the United States’ largest Hispanic markets during international and in-season breaks.

Media Contacts:
Zachary Reed
469-292-3499
[email protected]

Delia Lopez
424-239-4078
[email protected]

Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/439685/Toyota_Corp_Red_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Toyota Motor North America

Americans Look for Relief as Consumer Debt Levels Continue to Break Records

March 22, 2018

When Debt is the Problem, We are the Solution...

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., March 22, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The beginning of each year is usually a busy time for consumer credit counselors as people look to pay off holiday debt and achieve New Year’s resolutions, but this year has been especially busy for the counseling team at Consolidated Credit.

Consumers are looking for solutions to record-high debt levels and the nonprofit organization has seen a 30% increase in requests for debt help since the start of 2018.

The increased calls does not surprise Consolidated Credit’s president Gary Herman. He says his team has been preparing for the uptick due to rising household debt levels and higher delinquency rates.

“People are getting overextended in the same way that they were just before the Great Recession,” Herman says. “The good news is that we’re seeing more people be proactive about finding solutions early, instead of waiting for the floor to drop out from under them if and when the economy decides to take a turn.”

Total U.S. household debt hit an all-time high of $13.15 trillion at the end of 2017, according to Federal Reserve Bank of New York’s Center for Microeconomic Data. Those numbers don’t yet include holiday credit card spending totals from November and December. Current debt levels are likely to already be much higher.

What’s more, severe delinquencies, balances 90 days or more late, are expected to increase to about 2% this year, according to a January report in MarketWatch. This would be the fourth consecutive year where delinquencies have increased.

“You can’t wait to fall behind to start looking for solutions,” Herman explains. “If you do, it may limit the options you have available to solve your problems with debt. Start researching debt relief options before you start to struggle to make ends meet. If you’re in doubt of which option is the best choice in your situation, speak with a credit counselor for a free evaluation.”

About: Consolidated Credit is one of the nation’s largest credit counseling agencies. In 25 years, they have helped over 6.5 million people overcome challenges with debt and other financial issues. Their mission is to assist families throughout the United States to end financial crisis and solve money management issues through education and professional counseling.

Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/528613/Consolidated_Credit_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Consolidated Credit

Pampa Energía announces General Ordinary and Extraordinary Shareholders’ meeting for April 27, 2018

March 21, 2018

Pampa Energia S.A.

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina, March 21, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Pampa Energía S.A. (NYSE: PAM; Buenos Aires Stock Exchange: PAMP), announced that will hold a General Ordinary and Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting on April 27, 2018, at 10:00 a.m. on first call and, in the event that the legally required quorum is not reached on first call, at 11:00 a.m. on second call only with respect to the General Ordinary Shareholders’ Meeting at the registered office, located at Maipú 1, Buenos Aires City, to consider the following agenda:

1) Appointment of shareholders to approve and sign the Minutes of the Meeting.

2) Consideration of the Company’s Statements of Financial Position, of Comprehensive Income, of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity and of Cash Flows, Notes to the Financial Statements, Independent Auditor’s Report, Statutory Audit Committee Report, Annual Report and Corporate Governance Code Compliance Report, the Informative Summary as required by the Argentine Securities Commission Rules and any additional information required under applicable regulations, all for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017.

3) Consideration of the results of the fiscal year and use of such income (to consider this item, the Meeting shall be held as an Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting).

4) Consideration of the actions taken by the Statutory Audit Committee and the remuneration of its members in the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017 for a total amount of AR$1,620,000 (total remuneration).

5) Consideration of the actions taken by the Board of Directors and the remuneration of its members in the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017 for a total amount of AR$328,920,287 (total remuneration), AR$159,820,287 in excess of the limit of five per cent (5%) of profits established by Section 261 of Law No. 19,150 and regulations thereunder, in view of the proposal that no distribution of dividends should be effected.

6) Consideration of the remuneration of the Independent Auditor.

7) Appointment of directors and alternate directors. Distribution of Board positions.

8) Appointment of Statutory Audit Committee members and alternate members.

9) Appointment of the Independent Auditor and Alternate Independent Auditor that will issue an opinion on the financial statements for the fiscal year beginning on January 1, 2018.

10) Determination of the remuneration of the Independent Auditor and Alternate Independent Auditor that will issue an opinion on the financial statements for the fiscal year beginning on January 1, 2018.

11) Consideration of a budget item to be allocated to Audit Committee’s activities.

12) Consideration of the merger between Pampa Energía S.A., as acquirer in the merger, and Bodega Loma la Lata S.A., Central Térmica Güemes S.A., Central Térmica Loma de la Lata S.A., Eg3 Red S.A., Inversora Nihuiles S.A., Inversora Diamante S.A., Inversora Piedra Buena S.A., Pampa Participaciones II S.A. and Petrolera Pampa S.A., as absorbed companies, under sections 82 et seq. of the Argentine Business Companies Law and section 77 et seq. of the Argentine Income Tax Law (to consider this item, the Meeting shall be held as an Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting).

13) Consideration of the Company’s individual merger special statement of financial position as of September 30, 2017, and the merger consolidated statement of financial position as of September 30, 2017, together with the respective Independent Auditor’s and Statutory Audit Committee’s reports. Discussion of the previous merger agreement subscribed on December 21, 2017 (to consider this item, the Meeting shall be held as an Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting).

14) Consideration of the increase of the Company’s capital stock by a nominal amount of AR$144,322,083 by means of the issuance of 144,322,083 new book-entry, ordinary shares, of a nominal value of AR$1 each and carrying one vote per share, entitled to be paid dividends on an equal footing with any shares outstanding at the time of their issuance, to be issued with an issue premium resulting from the application of the applicable exchange ratio resulting from the merger. Application to have the new shares to be issued accepted for their public offering and listing. Delegation to the Board of Directors of the powers necessary to implement the above capital increase and to file the application for the acceptance of the shares to be issued for their public offering and listing (to consider this item, the Meeting shall be held as an Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting).

15) Consideration of the authorizations to be granted for the subscription of the final merger agreement (to consider this item, the Meeting shall be held as an Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting).

16) Consideration of amendments to the Corporate Bylaws. Approval of the Amended and Restated Bylaws (to consider this item, the Meeting shall be held as an Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting).

17) Authorizations to be granted for the performance of proceedings and filing of documents as necessary to obtain the relevant registrations.

NOTE 1: The Shareholders shall be required to submit certificates evidencing the account balance of book-entry shares respectively held by them, issued for this purpose by Caja de Valores S.A., to the office located at Maipú 1, Ground Floor, Autonomous City of Buenos Aires, on any business day, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., no later than April 24, 2018.

NOTE 2: In accordance with the Rules of the Argentine Securities Commission, as restated in 2013, the following details must be informed by the shareholders upon their registration for purposes of attendance at the meeting: first and last names or full corporate name; type and number of identity document if the shareholder is a natural person, or the details of corporate registration if the shareholder is a legal entity, expressly specifying the registry where it has been registered and the jurisdiction thereof; their domicile, specifying the nature thereof. The same details must be provided by any persons attending the Meeting as proxies for any shareholders.

NOTE 3: Shareholders are reminded that, in accordance with the Rules of the Argentine Securities Commission, as restated in 2013, when a shareholder is a legal entity, (i) it shall be required to provide the names of the final beneficiaries holding the shares that represent the capital stock of such entity and the number of shares that will be voted; to such an effect, the first and last names, nationality, real domicile, date of birth, DNI [National Identity Document] or Passport number, CUIT [Taxpayer Identification Number], CUIL [Employee Identification Number] or any other form of tax identification and occupation must be provided, and (ii) in the case of companies organized abroad, any proxies appointed to vote at the Meeting shall have been duly registered with the applicable Public Registry under Section 118 or 123 of the Business Companies Law.

NOTE 4: Shareholders are kindly requested to arrive not less than 15 minutes before the time set for the Meeting to be held.

NOTE 5: We hereby inform the shareholders of Petrobras Argentina S.A. that, due to the fact that as of this day, the inscription before the Public Registry of the merger between Pampa and Petrobras Argentina S.A. is still pending and, therefore, the exchange of shares has not yet taken place, the shareholders of Petrobras Argentina S.A. will be able to participate as listeners in this shareholders meeting. To such end, Petrobras Argentina S.A. shareholders who want to participate will have to comply with the requirements established in Notes 1 to 4 above. With regards to Note 1, it is hereby clarified that the shareholder must require Caja de Valores to issue a Simple Holding Certificate.

For further information, contact:

Gustavo Mariani – Executive Vice-president
Ricardo Torres – Executive Vice-president
Mariano Batistella – Executive Director of Planning, Strategy & Affiliates
Lida Wang – Investor Relations Officer

The Pampa Energía Building
Maipú 1 (C1084ABA)
Buenos Aires City, Argentina
Tel: +54 (11) 4344-6000
[email protected]
www.pampaenergia.com/ir

SOURCE Pampa Energia S.A.

De La Ghetto Reggaeton Artist Added to Kaya Fest Line-up

March 20, 2018

MIAMI, March 20, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ – Kaya Fest adds to its star-studded line-up, GRAMMY nominated reggaeton recording artist, De La Ghetto. Produced by Fruit of Life Productions and OneRise Entertainment, Kaya Fest is a two-day music and awareness festival being held at NOS Events Center April 28 – 29 in San Bernardino, California.

Determined to stand firm in his “movement” (the name of his forthcoming production), De La Ghetto has amassed more than 75 songs and garnered millions of fans worldwide throughout his young musical career. One of his most notable songs, “Sensación del Bloque,” has been viewed on YouTube over 149 million times to date.

“There’s no denying that reggaeton is one of the seeds planted by reggae music and the culture,” said Stephen Marley, founder of Kaya Fest. “So, it was fitting to add De La Ghetto to Kaya Fest and broaden the reach of our message,” Marley added.

“De La Ghetto often speaks on the influence of Caribbean music on his award-winning style of reggaeton,” said David F. Alfonso, chairman at OneRise Entertainment. “It’s with much gratitude that he accepted our invitation to join the Kaya Fest family who share this same passion and pride,” Alfonso added.

De La Ghetto is set to perform at Kaya Fest on Sunday, April 29th and joins a two-day lineup of notables including Stephen Marley, Ziggy Marley, Damian Marley, Julian Marley, Ky-Mani Marley, Ms. Lauryn Hill, Yandel, Cypress Hill, Action Bronson, SOJA, Chronixx, Toots & the Maytals, Common Kings and guitarist Tom Morello (of Rage Against the Machine) to name a few for Kaya Fest 2018.

More exciting artist announcements are forthcoming. The current line-up, tickets and additional information can be found at kayafestivals.com.

ABOUT KAYA FEST
Created by Stephen “Ragga” Marley of Fruit of Life Productions, Kaya Fest is a one-of-a-kind socially conscious music and awareness festival experience that fosters unity, one love and peace amongst people from all over the world. Named one of the Top 10 Music Moments of 2017 by Miami New Times, each year Kaya Fest invites a notable roster of artists and appreciators to celebrate and get involved. More information and the full line-up can be found at www.kayafestivals.com.

ABOUT ONERISE ENTERTAINMENT
Founded by David F. Alfonso, OneRise Entertainment (“OneRise”) provides a creative home designed to guide and encourage artists. OneRise identifies, develops, produces, promotes and manages songwriters, recording artists and filmmakers. The company is committed to nurturing talent and presenting art that inspires and unites the world community. OneRise delivers this support through two divisions: OneRise Music and OneRise Pictures.

Media Contact:
Shalishah Franklin
213-949-3204
[email protected]

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/656276/De_La_Ghetto_Press.jpg
Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/644290/Kaya_Fest___Logo.jpg

SOURCE Kaya Fest

2018 CMC Annual Conference Sneak Peek: Celebrities, Leaders & Brands Talk Creativity, Community & Culture

March 20, 2018

AHAA: The Voice of Hispanic Marketing is rebranding as Culture Marketing Council: The Voice of Hispanic Marketing, which will continue to elevate the quality and effectiveness of U.S. marketing by harnessing the power of cultural expertise and impact to drive business results.

FAIRFAX, Virginia, March 20, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — If brands aren’t thinking about how creativity, community & culture impact their target audiences, the efficacy and engagement of their marketing campaigns will be compromised. The Culture Marketing Council: The Voice of Hispanic Marketing (CMC) is not only providing world-class multicultural strategy but it also is tackling topics that are ripped from the headlines and how they are impacting the marketing landscape at its 2018 Annual Conference taking place at the Loews Hotel in Los Angeles from June 4-6.

Fireside Chat with Danny Trejo: Hispanic Representation on Screens

The #Oscarssowhite movement raised awareness of the lack of African-American representation among actors, but for Latinos, we are still limited to a few Mexican directors. How do we increase the Hispanic presence in front of and behind the camera? Actor Danny Trejo will discuss this issue—including how entertainment marketing and diverse representation go hand in hand. Often playing a villain or antihero, Trejo has appeared in numerous Hollywood films including Heat (1995), Con Air (1997), and Desperado (1995), the last with frequent collaborator Robert Rodriguez. Trejo is perhaps most recognized as the character Machete, originally developed by Rodriguez for the Spy Kids series of movies and later expanded into Trejo’s own series of films aimed at a more adult audience. He has appeared in TV shows such as Breaking Bad, The X-Files, and Sons of Anarchy.

Client Roundtable: The Multicultural Marketing Journey

No CMC Annual Conference is complete without a panel of high-level brands discussing the hottest marketing trends of the year and the impact of the multicultural consumer. The CMC is pleased to announce this year’s panelists: Marisa Solis, vice president/general manager – Hispanic of Pepsi Beverages; Jose Velez Silva, vice president of multicultural communications at Comcast; and Alex Tokatlian, program leader of Hispanic marketing & advertising at Domino’s Pizza.

The Future of Advertising Agencies

PJ Pereira, founder & creative chairman of the award-winning agency Pereira O’Dell, believes that creatives should think like marketers but behave like entertainers, a term he has coined “branducer” – it is this out-of-the-box thinking that has been key to his team’s success. So where do advertising agencies go from here? Pereira will provide his predictions and discuss three types of agency structure: the Uber model, the holdings model and the content-oriented model. Whether you are a creative or not, this can’t-miss session has lessons that can be applied to the entire marketing spectrum.

Other topics include the Hispanic Brand in the Trump Era, Culture is the New Mainstream, Corporate America & the State of Latino Representation, Pasion for Sports: How Hispanics Are Driving the Future of Sports Marketing, the Total Market Debacle, Influence of Influencers, and Marketing at the Speed of People, among others.

For more information, visit culturemarketingcouncil.org and follow the CMC on Facebook and Twitter at @cmchispanic using the conference hashtag #CMCpowerof3.

About CMC

Founded in 1996 as the Association of Hispanic Advertising Agencies, the Culture Marketing Council: The Voice of Hispanic Marketing is the national trade organization of all marketing, communications and media firms with trusted Hispanic expertise.

Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/635930/Culture_Marketing_Council_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Culture Marketing Council: The Voice of Hispanic Marketing

Health Alert: Spring Cleaning Tips for Your Health from the Up and Away Campaign

March 20, 2018

WASHINGTON, March 13, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The Up and Away campaign—led by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) PROTECT Initiative—is providing families with five important spring cleaning tips for household health and safety.

Make storing medicines safely up and away part of your spring cleaning regimen.

“Spring cleaning can be a big part of keeping your family healthy and safe at home, and that means doing more than dusting and vacuuming,” said Dr. Dan Budnitz, Director of the Medication Safety Program at CDC and coordinator of the PROTECT Initiative, which focuses on children’s medication safety. “Every year, approximately 60,000 young children end up in the emergency room due to accidental medicine ingestions, so as you’re cleaning and reorganizing areas like bathrooms and medicine cabinets, remember to safely store medicines you are using and safely dispose of medicines that you are not.”

The Up and Away campaign urges families to follow these five tips to keep their children safe and healthy:

Clean surfaces. Disinfect surfaces and objects that are touched often, like countertops, doorknobs, keyboards, faucet handles, phones, and toys.
Store safely. When you’re done cleaning and reorganizing, store everything you wouldn’t want your kids to get into, like cleaning products and medicines, in a safe spot up and away and out of sight and reach of young children. Remember to put medicines back in their safe place after you use them every time.
Dispose safely. Dispose of any expired, unused, or unwanted medicines in your home. Make sure to follow recommendations for safe disposal to prevent exposures to medications that have been discarded. Consider bringing expired or unwanted medications to medicine take-back programs.
Be prepared. Check your first aid kit for expired medicines and supplies; medicines that are past their expiration dates may not work as well as they should. Make sure your first aid kit is stored in a location that is accessible to adults, but not to your young children.
Update your contacts. Make sure you have the Poison Help number stored in your cell phone and available to your children’s caregivers: 800-222-1222.

Additional resources on safe medicine storage are available at UpandAway.org.

About Up and Away
Up and Away and Out of Sight is an educational campaign to remind families about the importance of safe medicine storage around young children. The campaign is led by CDC and its PROTECT Initiative in partnership with the CHPA Educational Foundation. For more information, visit UpandAway.org.

About Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) PROTECT Initiative
The PROTECT Initiative is a collaboration among public health agencies, private sector companies, professional organizations, consumer/patient advocates, and academic experts to develop strategies to keep children safe from unintentional medication overdoses. For more information, visit CDC.gov/MedicationSafety/PROTECT/PROTECT_Initiative.html.

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/653031/Up_and_Away_storing_medicines_safely.jpg

SOURCE Up and Away

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